Introduction
Cooking pasta is not just about boiling noodles; it’s about creating a delightful medley of flavors that can turn a simple meal into an extraordinary dining experience. This recipe combines the richness of cream, the tanginess of tomatoes, and the savoriness of Parmesan cheese to create a pasta dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you in making a delicious pasta dish that is both comforting and flavorful.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 tablespoon butter
Prep Time
The preparation time for this delicious pasta dish is approximately 10 minutes. This allows you to gather all your ingredients and prepare them for cooking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is about 15 minutes, making the total time for this recipe around 25 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.
Indulge in a quick yet delightful meal that is rich in flavors and sure to satisfy anyone’s palate!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining and setting the pasta aside.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in the oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Add Cream
Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream, stirring until fully incorporated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Incorporate Cheese and Butter
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and butter until both are fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring it’s fully coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches the desired consistency.
Step 7: Finish with Fresh Basil
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh basil. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal.
Adjusting Spice Level
Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your preference for spice.
Substitutions
To lighten the recipe, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative. For a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
Cook techniques
Cooking Pasta Al Dente
Cooking pasta al dente means it is firm to the bite. To achieve this, follow the package instructions for timing, but start checking for doneness 1-2 minutes before the suggested time. Remember to reserve some pasta water for adjusting the sauce later.
Sautéing Garlic
Sauté garlic in olive oil over medium heat. This technique enhances the flavor and aroma. Watch carefully and avoid browning to prevent bitterness; cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Simmering Sauces
Simmering sauce allows flavors to meld together. After adding crushed tomatoes and spices, let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking to the pan.
Incorporating Cream
Lower the heat before adding heavy cream to prevent curdling. Stir continuously to incorporate it smoothly into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
Melting Cheese
To melt cheese into sauce, ensure the heat is low. Adding grated Parmesan and butter will create a rich and smooth sauce. Stir until completely melted before mixing with pasta.
Tossing Pasta
When combining pasta with sauce, use tongs to gently toss the pasta. This technique ensures even coating and helps the pasta absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Adjusting Sauce Consistency
If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency. This method enhances the sauce without diluting the flavors.
Finishing with Fresh Herbs
Adding fresh basil at the end of cooking preserves its bright flavor and color. Stir it in off the heat to maintain its freshness and aroma.
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute with any pasta of your choice, such as spaghetti, rotini, or a gluten-free option.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be less rich and creamy.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. Ensure all ingredients, like cheese, are from vegetarian sources.
How can I make it spicier?
You can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some diced fresh chili peppers when cooking the garlic.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
You can substitute Parmesan with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Conclusion
This creamy tomato pasta dish is a delightful blend of flavors that come together beautifully. The richness of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese melds perfectly with the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pasta Primavera
Toss in seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes for a fresh, vibrant pasta dish.
Pesto Pasta
Substitute the tomato sauce with homemade or store-bought basil pesto for a nutty and aromatic flavor profile.
Chicken Alfredo
Add grilled chicken slices to the creamy sauce for a protein boost, transforming it into a hearty meal.
Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Incorporate sautéed shrimp into your dish for a seafood twist that pairs nicely with the creamy sauce.
Spicy Sausage and Spinach Pasta
Mix in cooked Italian sausage and fresh spinach to give the dish an extra kick and a nutritious element.
Mushroom Cream Pasta
Sauté mushrooms along with garlic for an earthy addition that complements the sauce beautifully.
Caprese Pasta Salad
Chill the dish and mix in mozzarella balls, fresh tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a refreshing side dish.
